How to build a Wooden Fence
Building a wooden fence yourself isn't as daunting as it looks — and getting the posts set properly is the difference between a fence that stands for decades and one that blows over in the first storm. In this guide I'll show you three methods for fixing fence posts, using Postcrete, post holders, and threaded bar reinforcement for exposed or windy sites.
Method 1 — Postcrete
Postcrete is the easiest method and sets in around 10 minutes. If you're working alone, use a couple of wooden stakes to hold the post vertical while the concrete sets. Fill the hole about a third full with water, pour the Postcrete on top, and tamp it down. That's it.
Method 2 — Post Holders and Thunderbolt Screws
Post holders work well on hard ground where digging isn't practical. Drill the holes for the Thunderbolt screws — one in each corner of the post holder — and screw them into the concrete blocks with a wrench. Once secure, drop your 100mm posts into the holders.
Check the level vertically in both directions, then drill through the holes for the coach bolts. Fit the coach bolts with a washer and nut and tighten up. Use the corner fasteners on the post holders to fix the panels — small clips that screw into the panel first, then into the post. Check level, make the panels horizontal, and fix with 60mm screws.
Method 3 — Threaded Bar Reinforcement (for Windy Sites)
If your site is exposed, Thunderbolt screws alone may not be enough — they only anchor into one block and 80mm isn't deep enough to resist serious wind shear. This is the fix.
Cut lengths of threaded bar and fit washers and nuts to the top. Drill out the existing post holder holes slightly larger. Apply Cam Fix bonding agent — it mixes as it comes out of the gun and goes off fast, so work quickly. Knock the threaded bar down into the holes so it passes through three blocks, then fit the post holder over the top with one Thunderbolt screw to keep it in place.
The threaded bar running through three blocks gives you significantly more resistance to wind shear than screws alone. On an exposed site this is worth the extra effort.
Final Tips
Check level at every stage — a post that's slightly off at the base becomes obviously wrong once the panels are on.
